★★★★★
If you’re looking for a nature escape filled with beautiful scenery, peaceful trails, and fresh mountain air, Bear Mountain State Park is such a lovely place to explore.
Walkability – There are many trails to explore, from peaceful walks to more active hikes. Perfect for slowing down and enjoying nature.
Photography – Beautiful spot for nature photography, with mountain views, trees, lake scenery, and many peaceful photo-worthy areas.
Maintenance – The park felt clean and well maintained throughout the visit.
Parking – Parking is available for $10 per car.
Overall – A beautiful place for hiking, photography, family walks, or simply taking a break from the noise of everyday life. Nature, fresh air, and peaceful views all in one place 🌲📸
★★★★★
A great area to explore that truly has it all. The Trailside Zoo features fantastic, native animal displays—including porcupines, foxes, beavers, and a wonderful collection of birds—though you won't see any actual bears at the moment.
Whether you are looking for a punishing vertical climb or just a scenic spot to grill by the water, this park delivers. The climb to the summit is short but steep, gaining roughly 1,000 feet of elevation in under two miles, and includes some fun scrambles over massive granite boulders.
At the summit sits the Perkins Memorial Tower, offering spectacular 360-degree views of the Hudson Highlands and the Bear Mountain Bridge. Highly recommended!
★★★★★
A couple of trails here with different degrees of difficulty. Usually moderate to hard difficulty. Views at the top at incredible and breathtaking. There's a few picnic areas that you can drive up to if hiking is not your thing
★★★★★
It has a moderate hiking trail where you'll see lots of people, including families with young children, hiking, picnicking, and walking around. You'll definitely enjoy the beautiful scenery.
★★★★★
We went right around the peak of Fall and it was absolutely gorgeous. Crisp air, lovely fall colors, beautiful lakeside crawl and a very cute zoo to make it a perfect afternoon walk.